Star-Spangled Banner – Defenders’ Day Weekend

September 15 - September 16

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Experience the premiere event held at Fort McHenry which commemorates the writing of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and the successful defense of Fort McHenry from British invasion during the War of 1812. For 2017, “A New Defenders’ Day” will connect Fort McHenry’s service as a hospital beginning in 1917 to the national World War I Centennial commemorations, and to medical history and veterans’ communities. The weekend will include a full roster of activities, including a community parade featuring World War I living history interpreters marching with the Fort McHenry Guard, flag raisings, fireworks, period music performed by WWI themed bands, cannon demonstrations, and presentations by rangers and living history interpreters. The weekend will also feature a spectacular fireworks display and live orchestra on Saturday night. This event is FREE to the public.